        

Soil Resistivity  Ground Resistance  3-Point Measurements  4-Point Measurements  Clamp-On Measurements

Understand the importance of

Ground Resistance Testing
& much more!
(800) 343-1391 • (508) 698-2115 www.aemc.com
 A One Day Training Seminar
In today’s rapidly changing world of t­echnological advances, good grounding is more important

than ever to prevent costly damage and downtime due to service i­nterruptions and inoperative

surge ­protection caused by poor grounds. Grounding s­ ystems offer protection from n
­ atural

phenomenon such as lightning by channeling the lightning c­ urrent to the ground, protecting

personnel from injury and protecting system c­ omponents from damage. In electric power

systems with ground returns, grounds help ensure rapid operation of the p
­ rotection relays by

providing low r­esistance fault paths in the event of unexpected potentials due to faults.

Low ground resistance is required to meet NEC , OSHA and some warranty requirements plus
®

other ­electrical safety s­ tandards.

References
IEEE Std 81-2012
— EEE Guide for Measuring Earth Resistivity, Ground Impedance, and Earth Surface Potentials
of Ground Systems

IEEE Std 142-2007

— IEEE Recommended Practice for Grounding of Industrial and Commercial Power Systems

2014 NEC

® ®

© 2016 Chauvin Arnoux , Inc. d.b.a. AEMC Instruments

i | www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

Contents
Soil Resistivity 1
Soil Resistivity Measurements 3
4 Point Measurement
Ground Electrodes 5
Ground Resistance Testing Principle 8
Fall-of-Potential – 3-Point Measurement
Multiple Electrode Systems 12
Tech Tips 13
Clamp-On Ground Resistance Measurement 16
(Models 6416 & 6417*)

Telecommunications 20
References 23
Ground Nomograph 24
Fall-of-Potential Plot 25

 Models 6416 & 6417 have replaced Models 3711 & 3731

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com | ii

 Soil Resistivity
Soil Resistivity Why Measure Soil Resistivity?

S
oil resistivity measurements have a threefold purpose.
First, data is used to make sub-surface geophysical surveys as an aid
in identifying ore locations, depth to bedrock and other geological phe-
nomena. Second, ­resistivity has a direct impact on the degree of corro-
sion in underground pipelines. A decrease in resistivity relates to an increase in
corrosion activity and therefore dictates the protective treatment to be used.
Third, soil ­resistivity directly affects the design of a grounding system, and it is
to that task that this discussion is directed. When designing an extensive
grounding ­system, it is advisable to locate the area of lowest soil resistivity in
order to achieve the most economical grounding installation.

 Note: The lower the soil resistivity value, the lower the grounding
electrode resistance will be.

Effects of Soil Resistivity

on Grounding Electrode Resistance
Soil resistivity is the key factor that determines what the resistance of a
grounding electrode system will be, and to what depth it must be driven to
obtain low ground resistance. The resistivity of the soil varies widely throughout
the world and changes seasonally. Soil resistivity is determined largely by its
content of electrolytes, which consist of moisture, minerals and dissolved salts.
A dry soil has high resistivity if it contains no soluble salts.
Resistivity (approx.), Ω-cm
Soil
Min Average Max
Ashes, cinders, brine, waste 590 2370 7000
Clay, shale, gumbo, loam 340 4060 16,300
Same, with varying proportions
1020 15,800 135,000
of sand and gravel
Gravel, sand, stones with little
59,000 94,000 458,000
clay or loam
Figure 1

Factors Affecting Soil Resistivity

Two samples of soil, when thoroughly dried, may in fact become very
good insulators having a resistivity in excess of 10 9Ω-cm. The ­resistivity of the
soil sample is seen to change quite rapidly until a
­ pproximately 20% or greater
moisture content is reached. (Figure 2)

Moisture content Resistivity Ω-cm

% by weight Top soil Sandy loam
0 >10
9
>109
2.5 250,000 150,000
notes

5 165,000 43,000
10 53,000 18,500
15 19,000 10,500
20 12,000 6300
30 6400 4200
Figure 2

1 | www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

The resistivity of the soil is also influenced by temperature. Figure 3 shows
the variation of the resistivity of sandy loam, containing 15.2% moisture, with
temperature changes from 20° to -15°C. In this temperature range
the resistivity is seen to vary from 7200 to 330,000Ω-cm.

Soil Resistivity
Temperature
Resistivity Ω-cm
°C °F
20 68 7200
10 50 9900
0 32 (water) 13,800
0 32 (ice) 30,000
-5 23 79,000
-15 14 330,000
Figure 3

Because soil resistivity directly relates to moisture content and temperature,

it is reasonable to assume that the resistance of any grounding system will
vary throughout the different seasons of the year. Such variations are shown
in Figure 4. Since both temperature and moisture content become more ­stable
at greater distances below the surface of the earth, it follows that a grounding
system, to be most effective at all times, should be constructed with the
ground rod driven down a considerable distance below the surface of the
earth. Best results are obtained if the ground rod reaches the water table.
Ohms

Figure 4

Seasonal variation of earth resistance with an electrode of

/4" pipe in rather stony clay soil. Depth of electrode in earth is
3

3 ft for Curve 1, and 10 ft for Curve 2

In some locations, the resistivity of the earth is so high that low-resistance

grounding can be obtained only at considerable expense and with an
elaborate grounding system. In such situations, it may be economical to use a
ground rod system of limited size and to reduce the ground resistivity by
periodically increasing the soluble chemical c­ ontent of the soil. Figure 5 shows
the ­substantial ­reduction in resistivity of sandy loam brought about by an
increase in chemical salt content.
notes

Chemically treated soil is also subject to considerable variation of resistivity

with temperature changes, as shown in Figure 6. If salt treatment is employed,
it is necessary to use ground rods which will resist chemical corrosion.

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com |2

 THE EFFECT OF SALT* CONTENT ON THE RESISTIVITY OF SOIL
(Sandy loam, Moisture content, 15% by weight, Temperature 17°C)

Measurements Added Salt

Soil Resistivity
Resistivity (Ω-cm)
(% by weight of moisture)
0 10,700
0.1 1800
1.0 460
5 190
10 130
20 100
Figure 5

THE EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE ON THE RESISTIVITY

OF SOIL CONTAINING SALT*
(Sandy loam, 20% moisture. Salt 5% of weight of moisture)

Temperature (Degrees C) Resistivity (Ω-cm)

20 110
10 142
0 190
-5 312
-13 1440
Figure 6
*Such as copper sulfate, sodium carbonate, and others.
Salts must be EPA or local ordinance approved prior to use.

Soil Resistivity Measurements

4-Point Measurement

R
esistivity measurements are of two types; the 2-Point and the
4-Point method. The 2-Point method is simply the resistance
measured between two points. For most applications the most
accurate is the 4-Point method which is used in Ground Tester
Model 4620, 4630, 6470-B, 6471 or 6472. The 4-Point method (Figures 7
and 8), as the name implies, requires the i­nsertion of four equally spaced
and in-line electrodes into the test area. A known current from a constant
current generator is passed between the outer electrodes. The potential
drop (a function of the resistance) is then measured across the two inner
electrodes. The Model 4620, 4630, 6470-B, 6471 and 6472 are calibrated to
read directly in ohms. Where space or access to inserting rods is a
problem, the Miller box and multiple depth testing may be used. The
Schlumberger method is used mainly for geologic surveys.
notes

NOTE:
To use feet instead of cm: 2π x (conversion from cm to ft) = (2) (3.14) [(12) (2.54) = 191.5]

3 | www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

 ρ
Where: Ε = measured apparent soil resistivity (Ωm)
a = electrode spacing (m)
b = depth of the electrodes (m)

Measurements
Soil Resistivity
Rw = Wenner resistance measured as “V/I” in
Figure (Ω) If b is small compared to a, as is the case of probes
penetrating the ground only for a short distance (as normally
happens), the previous equation can be reduced to:
ρΕ = 2 • π • a • Rw
The value to be used for ρ is the average resistivity of the ground at a depth
equivalent to the distance “A” between two electrodes for all tests taken.
Given a sizable tract of land in which to determine the optimum soil r­esistivity,
some intuition is in order. Assuming that the objective is low r­esistivity,
preference should be given to an area containing moist loam as opposed to a
dry sandy area. Consideration must also be given to the depth at which
resistivity is required.
ρ (Ω-cm) = 2π AR x 100 (with A in m)


 Example
After inspection, the area investigated has been narrowed down to a plot
of ground approximately 75 square feet (7m2). Assume that you need to
­determine the resistivity at a depth of 15 ft (450cm). The distance “A” between
the electrodes must then be equivalent to the depth at which a ­ verage
resistivity is to be determined (15 ft, or 450cm). Using the more s­ implified
Wenner formula (ρ = 2π AR), the electrode depth must then be no more
than 1/20th of the electrode spacing or 8 7/8" (22.5cm).
A A A

OR
A A A A A A
Figure 7
Z Y Xv X

B A

R A

Figure 8
Lay out the electrodes in a grid pattern and connect to the instrument
as shown in Figure 8. Proceed as follows:
notes

• Remove the shorting link between X and Xv (C1, P1)

• Connect all four auxiliary rods (Figure 7)

For example, if the reading is R = 15

 ρ (resistivity) = 2π x A x R
A (distance between electrodes) = 450cm
ρ = 6.28 x 15 x 450 = 42,390Ω-cm

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com |4

 Grounding Electrodes

T
Electrodes
Grounding

he term “ground” is defined as a conducting connection by which a

circuit or equipment is connected to the earth. The connection is used
to establish and maintain as closely as possible the potential of the
earth on the circuit or equipment connected to it. A “ground” consists
of a grounding conductor, a bonding connector, its grounding electrode(s), and
the soil in contact with the electrode.

“Grounds” have several protection applications. For natural phenomena such

as lightning, grounds are used to discharge the system of current before per-
sonnel can be injured or system components damaged. For foreign potentials
due to faults in electric power systems with ground returns, grounds help
ensure rapid operation of the protection relays by providing low resistance fault
current paths. This provides for the removal of the foreign potential as quickly
as possible. The ground should drain the foreign p­ otential before personnel are
injured and the power or communications system is damaged.

Ideally, to maintain a reference potential for instrument safety, protect against

static electricity, and limit the system to frame voltage for operator safety, a
ground resistance should be zero ohms. In reality, as we describe further in the
text, this value cannot be obtained.

Last but not least, low ground resistance is essential to meet NEC , OSHA and
®

other electrical safety standards.

Figure 9 illustrates a grounding rod. The resistance of the electrode has

the following components:
(A) The resistance of the metal and that of the connection to it.
(B) The contact resistance of the surrounding earth to the electrode.
(C) The resistance in the surrounding earth to current flow or earth
resistivity which is often the most significant factor.

 More specifically
(A) Grounding electrodes are usually made of a very conductive metal
(copper or copper clad) with adequate cross sections so that the overall­­­
resistance is negligible.
(B) The National Institute of Standards and Technology has demonstrated
that the resistance between the electrode and the surrounding earth is
­negligible if the electrode is free of paint, grease, or other coating, and if
the earth is firmly packed.
notes

5 | www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

(C) The only component remaining is the resistance of the surrounding earth.
The electrode can be thought of as being s­ urrounded by concentric
shells of earth or soil, all of the same thickness. The closer the shell to
the electrode, the smaller its surface; hence, the greater its resistance.

Electrodes
Grounding
The farther away the shells are from the electrode, the greater the
surface of the shell; hence, the lower the resistance. Eventually, adding
shells at a distance from the grounding electrode will no longer noticeably
affect the overall earth resistance surrounding the electrode. The distance
at which this effect occurs is referred to as the e
­ ffective resistance area
and is directly dependent on the depth of the grounding electrode.

Ground rod
and clamp

Contact
resistance
between rod
and soil

Concentric
shells of
earth

Figure 9

Effect of Grounding Electrode Size

and Depth on Resistance
Size: Increasing the diameter of the rod does not significantly reduce its
resistance. Doubling the diameter reduces resistance by less than 10%.
(Figure 10)
Resistance in %

100
75
50
25
0
1/2 5/8 3/4 1 1 1/4 1 1/2 1 3/4

Rod diameter (inches)

Figure 10
notes

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com |6

 Depth: As a ground rod is driven deeper into the earth, its resistance is
substantially reduced. In general, doubling the rod length reduces the
resistance by an additional 40% (Figure 11). The NEC (2014, 250.53 G)
Electrodes requires a minimum of 8 ft. (2.4m) in contact with the soil.
Grounding

NEC (2014, 250.53 G) states that rod electrodes of stainless steel and
copper or zinc coated steel shall be at least 15.87mm (5/8 in) diameter,
unless listed and not less than 12.70mm (1/2 in) in diameter.

200

100
80
60

Resistance in ohms
40
30

20

1" dia. 1/2" dia.

10
8
6
5
4
3
2

1
5 15 25 35 40 50 60 70

Driven depth in feet

Ground resistance versus ground rod depth
Figure 11

Ground Rod Soil Resistivity Rod Length Rod Diameter

Resistance – Ohms (Ohm-centimeters) Feet Inches

20 11,000 20 5/8

D
100 K
90
R 80
100
70 DIA
90 8
80 60 7
70 P 6
50
100000
60
5
50 40
50000
4
40000
40 30
30000
3
30
20000
15000 20
1
20 10000 15
1.5
15 5000
10
4000
3000 1
10
9 2000 3/4
8
5 5/8
7
1000
6 4 1/2

5
500
3
4

3 2 1/4

Figure 12
notes

Represents example of a 20Ω, 20 ft ground rod

Grounding Nomograph
1. Select required resistance on R scale
2. Select apparent resistivity on P scale
3. Lay straightedge on R and P scale, and allow to intersect with K scale
4. Mark K scale point
5. Lay straightedge on K scale point & DIA scale, and allow to intersect with D scale
6. Point on D scale will be rod depth required for resistance on R scale

7 | www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

Ground Resistance Testing Principle

Testing Principle
Ground Resistance
Fall-of-Potential – 3-Point Measurement

T
he potential difference between rods X and Y is measured by a
voltmeter, and the current flow between rods X and Z is measured by
an ammeter. (Note: X, Y and Z may be referred to as X, P and C or H, S
or E in a 3-Point tester or C1, P2 and C2 in a 4-Point tester.) (Figure 13)
Current
supply

Ammeter (I)

Voltmeter (E)

Ground Auxiliary Auxiliary

electrode X potential Y current Z
under test electrode electrode

R
EARTH
V
I
Figure 13

By Ohm’s Law E = RI or R = E/I, we may obtain the grounding electrode

­resistance R. If E = 20V and I = 1A, then

R = E = 20 =
20Ω
––– –––
I 1
This method requires the service neutral and any other grounding system be
disconnected. It is not necessary to carry out all the measurements when using
a ground tester. The ground tester will measure directly by generating its own
current and displaying the resistance of the grounding electrode.

Position of the Auxiliary Electrodes

on Measurements
The goal in precisely measuring the resistance to ground is to place the
auxiliary current electrode Z far enough from the grounding electrode under
test so that the auxiliary potential electrode Y will be outside of the effective
notes

resistance areas of both the grounding electrode and the auxiliary current
­electrode. The best way to find out if the auxiliary potential rod Y is outside the
effective resistance areas is to move it between X and Z and to take a reading
at each location (See Figure 15) If the auxiliary potential rod Y is in an effective
­
resistance area (or in both if they overlap, as in Figure 14), by displacing it, the
readings taken will vary noticeably in value. Under these conditions, no exact
va­­lue for the resistance to ground may be determined.

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com |8

 ­ n the other hand, if the auxiliary potential rod Y is located outside of
O
Ground Resistance the effective resistance areas (Figure 15), as Y is moved back and forth the
­reading variation is minimal. The readings taken should be relatively close
Testing Principle to each other, and are the best values for the resistance to ground of the
ground X. The readings should be plotted to ensure that they lie in a “plateau”
region as shown in Figure 15. The region is often referred to as the “62% area.”
(See 62% method below for explanation) Readings every 5-10% of the
distance from x to z are suggested. The average of the closest three
readings (user defined) would be considered the resistance between
earth and the test point.

X Y' Y Y'' Z

Effective resistance
areas (overlapping)
Resistance

52% 62% 72%

(of total distance from X to Z) Reading variation

100% of distance
between X & Z Figure 14

X Y' Y Y'' Z

Effective resistance
areas (no overlap)
Resistance

52% 62% 72%

Reading variation
(of total distance from X to Z)

100% of distance
between X & Z
Figure 15

Measuring Resistance of Grounding Electrodes

62% Method
notes

The 62% method has been adopted after graphical consideration and after
actual test. It is the most accurate method but is limited by the fact that the
ground tested is a single unit.
This method applies only when all three electrodes are in a straight line and
the ground is a single electrode, pipe, or plate, etc., as in Figure 16.

9 | www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

Consider Figure 16, which shows

Testing Principle
Ground Resistance
the effective resistance areas
(concentric shells) of the
grounding electrode X and of the
auxiliary current electrode Z. The
resistance areas overlap. If
readings were taken by moving
the auxiliary potential electrode Y
towards either X or Z, the reading
differentials would be great and
one could not obtain a reading
within a reasonable band of
­tolerance. The sensitive areas
overlap and act constantly to
increase resistance as Y is moved
away from X.-Point
Measurement Figure 16

Disconnect
Ground Rod
from System

Figure 17

Now consider Figure 17, where the X and Z electrodes are sufficiently
spaced so that the areas of effective resistance do not overlap. If we plot the
resistance measured we find that the measurements level off when Y is
placed at 62% of the distance from X to Z, and that the readings on either
side of the initial Y setting are most likely to be within the established
­tolerance band. This tolerance band is defined by the user and expressed
as a percent of the initial reading: ±2%, ±5%, ±10%, etc.
notes

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com |10

 Ground Resistance
Testing Principle Auxiliary Electrode Spacing
No definite distance between X and Z can be given, since this distance is r­elative
to the diameter of the electrode tested, its length, the homogeneity of the soil
tested, and particularly, the effective resistance areas. However, an approximate
distance may be determined from the following chart which is given for a
homogeneous soil and an electrode of 1" in diameter. (For a diameter of 1/2",
reduce the distance by 10%; for a diameter of 2" increase the distance by 10%;
for a diameter of 3/8", reduce the distance by 8%.)

APPROXIMATE DISTANCE TO AUXILIARY ELECTRODES

USING THE 62% METHOD

Depth Driven Distance to Y Distance to Z

6 ft 45 ft 72 ft
8 ft 50 ft 80 ft
10 ft 55 ft 88 ft
12 ft 60 ft 96 ft
18 ft 71 ft 115 ft
20 ft 74 ft 120 ft
30 ft 86 ft 140 ft
Figure 18

Multiple Rod Spacing

Parallel multiple electrodes yield lower resistance to ground than a single
electrode. High-capacity installations require low grounding resistance.
Multiple rods are used to provide this resistance.

A second rod does not provide a total resistance of half that of a single rod
unless the two are several rod lengths apart. To achieve the grounding
­resistance, place multiple rods one rod length apart in a line, circle, hollow
­triangle, or square. The equivalent resistance can be calculated by dividing
by the number of rods and multiplying by the factor X (see next page).
Additional considerations regarding step and touch potentials should be
addressed by the geometry.
notes

11| www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

 MULTIPLE FACTORS FOR MULTIPLE RODS

Electrode Systems
Multiple
Number of Rods X

2 1.16
3 1.29
4 1.36
8 1.68
12 1.80
16 1.92
20 2.00
24 2.16
Figure 19
Placing additional rods within the periphery of a shape will not reduce the
grounding resistance below that of the peripheral rods alone.

Multiple Electrode Systems

A
single driven grounding electrode is an economical and simple means
of making a good ground system. But sometimes a single rod will not
provide sufficient low resistance, and several grounding electrodes
will be driven and connected in parallel by a cable. Very often when
two, three or four grounding electrodes are being used, they are driven in a
straight line; when four or more are being used, a hollow square configuration
is used and the grounding electrodes are still connected in parallel
and are equally spaced. (Figure 20)
a a
In multiple electrode systems, the 62%
method electrode spacing may no
longer be applied directly. The distance a a
of the auxiliary electrodes is now
based on the maximum grid distance
(i.e. In a square, the d
­ iagonal; in a line, DIAGONAL

the total length. For example, a square

DIAGONAL

having a side of 20 ft will have a

diagonal of approximately 28 ft).
Three readings, minimum, are still
required for proper testing.
notes

Figure 20

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com |12

 MULTIPLE ELECTRODE SYSTEM

Max Grid Distance Distance to Y Distance to Z

6 ft 78 ft 125 ft
Tech Tips
8 ft 87 ft 140 ft
10 ft 100 ft 160 ft
12 ft 105 ft 170 ft
14 ft 118 ft 190 ft
16 ft 124 ft 200 ft
18 ft 130 ft 210 ft
20 ft 136 ft 220 ft
30 ft 161 ft 260 ft
40 ft 186 ft 300 ft
50 ft 211 ft 340 ft
60 ft 230 ft 370 ft
80 ft 273 ft 440 ft
100 ft 310 ft 500 ft
120 ft 341 ft 550 ft
140 ft 372 ft 600 ft
160 ft 390 ft 630 ft
180 ft 434 ft 700 ft
200 ft 453 ft 730 ft
Figure 21

Tech Tips
Excessive Noise

E
xcessive noise may interfere with testing because of the long leads
used to perform a Fall-of-Potential test. A voltmeter can be utilized to
identify this problem. Connect the “X”, “Y” and “Z” cables to the
auxiliary electrodes as for a standard ground resistance test. Use the
voltmeter to test the voltage across terminals “X” and “Z”. (See Figure 22)

Ground
strip

Y Electrode Z Electrode

X
Ground rod
notes

Figure 22

| www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

13
The voltage reading should be within stray voltage tolerances acceptable
to your ground tester. If the voltage exceeds this value, try the following
techniques:

A) Braid the auxiliary cables together. This often has the effect of canceling

Tech Tips
out the common mode voltages between these two conductors. (Figure 23)

Ground
strip

Y Electrode Z Electrode

X
Ground rod

Figure 23

B) If the previous method fails, try changing the alignment of the auxiliary
cables so that they are not parallel to power lines above or below the
ground. (Figure 24)

C) If a satisfactory low voltage value is still not obtained, the use of

­shielded cables may be required. The shield acts to protect the inner
­conductor by ­capturing the voltage and draining it to ground. (Figure 25)

1. Float the shields at the auxiliary electrodes

2. Connect all three shields together
at (but not to) the instrument
3. Solidly ground the remaining shield to the ground under test

Disconnect ground
under test

Figure 24

Ground
shield
notes

Ground Float shield Float shield

strip
Connect all three
shields together Y Electrode Z Electrode

X
Ground rod

Figure 25

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com |14

 Excessive Auxiliary Rod Resistance
The inherent function of a Fall-of-Potential ground tester is to input a c­ onstant
current into the earth and measure the voltage drop by means of auxiliary
electrodes. Excessive resistance of one or both auxiliary e ­ lectrodes can inhibit
Tech Tips

this function. This is caused by high soil resistivity or poor contact between the
auxiliary electrode and the surrounding dirt. (Figure 26)

To ensure good contact with the earth, stamp down the soil directly around
the auxiliary electrode to remove air gaps formed when inserting the rod.
If soil resistivity is the problem, pour water around the auxiliary electrodes.
This reduces the auxiliary electrode’s contact resistance without affecting the
measurement.

W
at
er
Air gaps

EARTH
Figure 26

Asphalt, soil, concrete, rock, etc...

Sometimes a test must be performed on a ground rod that is surrounded by
a tar or concrete mat, where auxiliary electrodes cannot be driven easily.
In such cases, metal screens and water can be used to replace auxiliary
­electrodes, as shown in Figure 27.

Place the screens on the asphalt, soil, concrete, rock, the same distance
from the ground rod under test as you would auxiliary electrodes in a standard
fall-of-potential test. Pour water on the screens and allow it to soak in. These
screens will now perform the same function as would driven auxiliary
electrodes.

Ground
rod
notes

Water Figure 27
Screens

| www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

15
Clamp-On Ground
Resistance Measurement

Measurement
Resistance
Clamp-On Ground
Models 6416 & 6417

T
his measurement method is innovative and quite unique. It offers the
­ability to measure the resistance without disconnecting the ground.
This type of measurement also offers the advantage of including the
bonding to ground and the overall grounding connection resistances.
This method requires connection of utility neutral or another grounding system
so that the signal goes out to the other system and returns to the test point
through the earth.

Principle of Operation
Usually, a common distribution line grounded system can be simulated as
a simple basic circuit as shown in Figure 28 or an equivalent circuit, shown in
Figure 29. If voltage E is applied to any measured grounding point Rx through
a special transformer, current I flows through the circuit, thereby establishing
the following equation.

V 1
I = Rx + –––––––––
where, usually 1 –
n 1 Rx >> –––––––––

∑ ∑
n 1
–– ––
i=1 Ri
i =1 Ri

Therefore, E/I = Rx is
established. If I is detected with
E kept constant, m ­ easured
grounding point resistance can
be obtained. Refer again to
Figures 28 and 29. Current is fed
to a ­special transformer via a
power amplifier from a 2.4kHz
constant voltage ­oscillator. This
current is detected by a
detection CT. Only the 2.4kHz
signal ­frequency is amplified by
a filter amplifier. This occurs
Figure 28
before the A/D c­ onversion and
after ­synchronous rectification. It
is then displayed on the LCD. I
The filter amplifier is used to cut
off both earth current at E
600V CAT IV 40
MEM

MR

SET-UP
A

­commercial frequency and

OFF

A
HOLD

high-frequency noise. Voltage is

notes

­detected by c­oils wound around

the injection CT which is then Rx R1 R2 Rn-1 Rn
amplified, rectified, and
compared by a level comparator.
If the clamp is not closed Figure 29
­properly, an “open jaw”
annunciator appears on the LCD.

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com |16

 Examples: Typical In-Field Measurements
Clamp-On Ground
Pole Mounted Transformer
Remove any molding covering the ground conductor, and provide sufficient
Measurement room for the Model 6416 and 6417 jaws, which must be able to close easily
around the conductor. The jaws can be placed around the ground rod itself.
Resistance



Note: The clamp must be placed so that the jaws are in an electrical
path from the system neutral or ground wire to the ground rod or
rods as the c­ ircuit provides.

Select the current range “A.” Clamp onto the ground conductor and measure
the ground current. The maximum current range is 30A. If the ground c­ urrent
exceeds 5A, ground resistance measurements are not possible.
Do not proceed further with the measurement. Instead, remove the ­
clamp-on tester from the circuit, noting the location for maintenance, and
­continue to the next test location.

After noting the ground current, select the ground resistance range “Ω”
and measure the resistance directly. The reading you measure with the Model
6416 and 6417 indicates the resistance not just of the rod, but also of
the connection to the system neutral and all bonding connections between
the neutral and the rod.

Note that in Figure 30 there is both a butt plate and a ground rod. In this type
of circuit, the instrument must be placed above the bond so that both grounds
are included in the test. For future reference note the date, ohms reading,
current reading and point number. Replace any molding you may have
removed from the conductor.
 Note: A high reading indicates one or more of the following:

A) Poor ground rod

B) Open ground conductor
C) High resistance bonds on the rod or splices on the conductor;
watch for buried split bolts, clamps and hammer-on connections.

Signal out
notes

Figure 30

Signal return

17| www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

Pad Mounted Transformer
 Note: Never open transformer enclosures. They are the property of the ­

Measurement
Resistance
Clamp-On Ground
electrical utility. This test is for high voltage experts only.

Observe all safety requirements, since dangerously high voltage is present.

Locate and number all rods (usually only a single rod is present). If the ground
rods are inside the enclosure, refer to Figure 32 and if they are o ­ utside the
enclosure, refer to Figure 33. If a single rod is found within the enclosure, the
measurement should be taken on the conductor just before the bond on the
ground rod. Often, more than one ground conductor is tied to this clamp,
looping back to the enclosure or neutral.

In many cases, the best reading can be obtained by clamping the Models 6416
and 6417 onto the ground rod itself, below the point when the ground conduc-
tors are attached to the rod, so that you are measuring the ground c­ ircuit.
Care must be taken to find a conductor with only one return path to the neutral.

Signal out

Signal return

Figure 32

Signal out

Underground
service
notes

Figure 33
Signal return

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com |18

 Telecommunications
Telecommunications

T
he clamp-on ground tester developed by AEMC® and discussed in the
­previous chapter has revolutionized the ability of power companies to
­measure their ground resistance values. This same proven instrument
and technology can be applied to telephone industries to aid in
detecting ­grounding and bonding problems. As equipment operates at lower
voltages, the system’s ability to remove any manmade or natural overpotentials
becomes even more critical. The traditional Fall-of-Potential tester proved
to be labor intensive and left much to interpretation. Even more important, the
clamp-on ground test method allows the user to make this necessary reading
without the risky business of removing the ground under test from service.

In many applications, the ground consists of bonding the two utilities together
to avoid any difference of potentials that could be dangerous to equipment and
personnel alike. The clamp-on “Ohm meter” can be used to test these
important bonds.

Here are some of the solutions and clamp-on procedures that have
­applications to the telephone industry.

Telephone Cabinets and Enclosures

Grounding plays a very important role in the maintenance of sensitive
equipment in telephone cabinets and enclosures. In order to protect this
equipment, a low resistance path must be maintained in order for any
overvoltage potentials to conduct safely to earth. This resistance test is
­performed by clamping a ground tester, Models 6416 and 6417, around
the ­driven ground rod, below any common telephone and power company
bond connections.
notes

Signal
Signal
return
out

Figure 34

| www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

19
 To avoid any high voltage potentials Signal
out

Telecommunications
between the telephone and power
­companies, a low resistance bond is WATT-hour
meter

established. Bonding integrity is Remote

­performed by clamping around the Transfer
switch
terminal
cabinet

No. 6 copper wire between the master

ground bar (MGB) and the power
company’s multigrounded neutral
Lightning
(MGN). The resistance value displayed arrester

on the tester will also include loose or Power co.

ground
poorly landed ­terminations that may Ground rod
Telephone co.
ground
have degraded over time. (8 ft long)

Additionally, the clamp-on ground NOTE: If seperate ground rods are

used for telephone and power grounds,
tester can be used as a True RMS the ground rods must be bonded
together using no. 6 ground wire.

ammeter.
Signal return Figure 35

Pedestal Grounds
All cable sheaths are bonded to a ground bar inside each pedestal.
This ground bar is connected to earth by means of a driven ground rod.
The ground rod resistance can be found by using the instrument clamped
around the ground rod or the No. 6 cable connecting these two points.
(Figure 36)

Phone
pedestal

Ground bar
Sheath connection
Ground level

Signal Figure 36
out
Ground
rod

Signal return

Note: Temporary jumper required only if

pedestal does not allow tester to fit.
notes

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com |20

 Cable Shield Bonds to MGN
Telecommunications
The cable shields in a buried or above ground telephone enclosure may be
grounded by means of the power company’s multigrounded neutral.
The clamp-on ground tester can be utilized to ensure that this connection
has been successfully terminated. The low resistance return path for the
­instrument to make this measurement will be from this bond wire under
test to the MGN back through all other bonds up and/or down stream
­(theory of parallel resistance).

The clamp-on ground tester also is a True RMS ammeter.

Power transformer Bond cable shield to multi-grounded

pad or pedestal neutral system at:
A) All above-ground closures
B) All pedestal and/or transformer locations
C) At least every 1,000 feet

NOTE:
A bond MUST be made at any
above-ground closure within
10 feet of any above-ground
Tel. power apparatus.
enclosure No. 6
Grd. wire Power cables

Tel. cable
and wire
Electric company shall
make bond connection to
power cable and/or No. 6
power apparatus Grd.wire
Buried tel.
enclosure

Bond cable shield

to multiground
neutral
Telephone
cable and
wire

Buried telephone
enclosure
(top view)
notes

JOINT BURIED CONSTRUCTION – RANDOM SEPARATION

Figure 37

| www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

21
Grounding Nomograph
Ground Rod Soil Resistivity Rod Length Rod Diameter
Resistance – Ohms (Ohm-centimeters) Feet Inches

D
100 K
90
R 80
100
70 DIA
90 8
80 60 7
70 P 6
50
100000
60
5
50 40
50000
4
40000
40 30
30000
3
30
20000
15000 20
1
20 10000 15
1.5
15 5000
10
4000
3000 1
10
9 2000 3/4
8
5 5/8
7
1000
6 4 1/2

5
500
3
4

3 2 1/4

1. Select required resistance on R scale

2. Select apparent resistivity on P scale
3. Lay straightedge on R and P scale, and allow to intersect
with K scale
4. Mark K scale point
5. Lay straightedge on K scale point and DIA scale,
and allow to intersect with D scale
6. Point on D scale will be the rod depth required for resistance
on R scale

Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391 www.aemc.com |22

 Fall-of-Potential Plot

Instrument Mfr._____________ Name of Operator�����������������������������������������������������

Model_____________ Location___________________________________ Date����������������������
Ground System Type: Single Rod Rod Depth��������������������� ft
Serial #_____________
Multiple Rods (Grid) Longest Diagonal Dimension������� ft
Z Electrode Distance������������������������������������������������� ft
Voltage
Electrode (Y)
distance Measured Test Conditions
from Ground Resistance
Rod under Temp: ___________ Soil: n Moist n Dry
Test (X) Soil Type
n Loam n Sand & Gravel n Shale n Clay n Limestone
% FEET OHMS
n Sandstone n Granite n Slate n Other_____________

100
50 100

90
45 90
80

72 40 80

70
35 70
62

30 60
60
Resistance (Ω)

52 25 50

50
20 40
40

30 15 30

20
10 20

10
5 10
0

0 0
Resistance Scale: 50
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
100 Distance in Feet from Ground under Test to Voltage Electrode (Y)
Distance Scale Multiplier: x1 x10
Multiplier: x1
x10

| www.aemc.com Technical Assistance (800) 343-1391

23
Clamp-On Ground Resistance Tester
Models 6416 & 6417
NEW!
IP
40
Rated
MODELS 6416 6417
Clamp-On Test 
Measurement Range 0.01 to 1500W
Ranging Automatic
Current Ranging 0.2mA to 40Arms
Test Current Automatic
Selective Test Frequency  
Voltage Detection  
Data Storage  
Report Generation — 
Noise Protection Enhanced filtering
Other Features Hold function Alarm & memory
Power Source 9V Alkaline
Display Digital
Dimensions 10.31 x 3.74 x 2.17"
Weight 2.06 lbs
Catalog No. 2141.01 2141.02
Ground Resistance Tester
Model 6472
IP
53
Rated
cover closed
3-Point 
4-Point Direct soil resistivity measurement
Bond Test (2- and 4-wire) 3
2 Clamp 3
Soil Resistivity 4-Pole 3
Earth Potential 3
External Voltage 0.1 to 65.0V
External Current 0.01 to 40.0A
Measurement Range 99,000Ω
Ranging Auto-Ranging
Test Current Up to 250mA
Test Frequency Selectable from 40 to 5078Hz
Power Source 9.6V rechargeable battery pack
Display Digital/backlight
Dimensions 10.7 x 9.76 x 5.12"
Weight 7.5 lbs
Catalog No. 2135.54
Ground Resistance Tester
Model 6471
IP
53
Rated
cover closed
2 Clamp Measurement 
3-Point Test 
4-Point Test Direct soil resistivity measurement
Bond Test (2- and 4-wire) 
Earth Coupling Test 
External Voltage Measurement 0.1 to 65.0V
Measurement Range 99,000Ω
Ranging Auto-Ranging
Test Current Up to 250mA
Test Frequency Selectable from 41 to 513Hz
Power Source Rechargeable 9.6V
NiMH battery pack
Display Digital/backlight
Dimensions 10.7 x 9.76 x 5.12"
Weight 7.5 lbs
Catalog No. 2135.49
Also available as complete Test Kits
AC Current Probes Model SR182 included
Digital 10A Micro-Ohmmeter
Model 6250
IP
65
Rated
cover closed
4-Point, Kelvin Bridge 
Measurement Range 5µW to 2500.0W
Test Current 1mA to 10A selectable
Measurement Mode Inductive/Resistive/Auto
Metal Alpha Adjustable to 99.9
Temperature Correction Manual or Auto
Power Source Rechargeable 6V
NiMH battery pack
Display Digital/backlight
Dimensions 10.7 x 9.76 x 7.17"
Weight 8 lbs
Catalog No. 2129.81
Accessory 1A and 10A Kelvin Probes available
Digital Ground Resistance Tester
Models 4620 & 4630
IP
65
Rated
cover closed
MODELS 4620 4630
2-Point Test 
3-Point Test 
4-Point Test 
Measurement Range 0.00 to 1999W
Ranging Automatic
Test Current Auto up to 10mA
Noise Protection Enhanced filtering
with LED indication
Power Source Eight C Rechargeable
cell Alkaline 9.6V NiMH
batteries battery pack
Display Digital/backlight
Dimensions 10.7 x 9.76 x 5.12"
Weight 7.75 lbs
Catalog No. 2130.43 2130.44
Also available as complete Test Kits
Digital 10A Micro-Ohmmeter
Model 6240
IP
54
Rated
cover closed
4-Point, Kelvin Bridge 
Measurement Range 5µW to 400W
Test Current 10mA to 10A selectable
Resolution 1µW to 100mW
Temperature Correction Manual
Power Source Rechargeable 6V
NiMH battery pack
Display Digital/backlight
Dimensions 10.7 x 9.76 x 7.17"
Weight 9.9 lbs
Catalog No. 2129.80
Accessory 1A and 10A Kelvin Probes available
 www.aemc.com

AEMC® Website
The AEMC® website offers a wide assortment of technical product information, software and firmware updates,
user manuals and printable data sheets for all AEMC® products. View AEMC® 's upcoming trade shows and training
seminars that take place across the country, read about AEMC® 's NEW products and register purchased AEMC®
products. Visit us at www.aemc.com

AEMC® Storefront
The AEMC® online store offers the opportunity to purchase replacement parts such as fuses, test leads and other
accessory items for your test instruments. The online store also offers refurbished and discontinued items at a
reduced price. Product specials are also offered. Visit the store at store.aemc.com

Technical Sales and Assistance

If you are experiencing any technical problems, or require any assistance with the proper use or application of
any AEMC® instrument, contact our technical hotline at techsupport@aemc.com or call (800) 343-1391

                     

HANDS ON EXPERT TRAINING GO!



© 2016 Chauvin Arnoux , Inc. d.b.a. AEMC Instruments
® ®
Workbook Edition 15.0
950.WKBK-GROUND-SHORT 10/16